As locals know, food in Pakistan is not just a way of sating one’s appetite. It’s much more than that. It is a representation of a culture, history and tradition unique to the country.
It’s not a surprise that Pakistanis living abroad long for the mouth-watering cuisines only available in their homeland. Vegemite can’t replace paratha for breakfast, and a steak is no match for karahi with naan.
Perth-based Chef Jesse Hands got a taste of the local cuisine in Karachi and – needless to say – is a fan of the taste!
“On a flavour side, it’s absolutely amazing,” Hands told SBS Urdu’s correspondent Mohammed Faraz in Karachi.
He struck the right chords when he compared the desi food available in Pakistani and Australia.
“The Pakistani food in Australia is definitely not as flavoursome as it is here in Pakistan,” the chef remarked (watch the video below for the complete interview).
Mr Hands is in Pakistan to attend the Australian Food Festival, being organised by the Australian High Commission, in collaboration with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) and Avari Group of Hotels from 4 -10 November.
At the festival’s opening High Commissioner Margaret Adamson said it was a testament to the fact that food was an important part of both Australia’s and Pakistan’s cultural heritage and identity.
“Australian cuisine reflects both its indigenous heritage and multicultural diversity. Australian cuisine is a kaleidoscope fusion of cultures, including Pakistani, which showcases the abundance and diversity of Australia’s fresh green and clean produce,” Ms Adamson said.
“Australia and Pakistan are actively exploring avenues to expand bilateral trade and investment, particularly through our support to Pakistan in food production and agriculture. Australian food franchises are increasingly popular in Pakistan with ConeHeads and the Chocolate Room recently joining the well-established Gloria Jeans,” she said.
Source: SBS
The week-long Australian Food Festival will feature the best of Australian barbecue with quintessential Australian spices, meat and seafood imported from Australia.
Try a range of Pakistani recipes from SBS Food here.
Listen to SBS Urdu's full podcast from the Festival here:
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Australian Food Festival in Pakistan
